Excess RNA starves cells of energy by damaging mitochondria

Researchers at Texas A&M found that excess RNA, including ordinary mRNA, directly impairs mitochondria and reduces energy production without triggering an immune response. The findings, published in PNAS, may inform research on aging and RNA-based vaccines.

• Excess mRNA and dsRNA damage mitochondria and cut ATP production
• The damage occurs without immune pathway activation
• Poxviruses use RNA degradation to keep infected cells functional
• Results published in PNAS may inform aging and mRNA vaccine research